As winter approaches, the City of Owatonna Parks, Recreation & Facilities Department is prepared to face Minnesota's snow and ice challenges. With trained staff and specialized equipment, the department ensures safety and environmental responsibility during the season's harshest conditions.

City staff initiate snow and ice control operations when snow accumulations reach two or more inches, drifting snow causes travel problems, icy conditions severely impact travel, or road conditions could deteriorate because of peak traffic volumes. Initially, park staff assists the street crew in removing snow from city streets. Subsequently, priorities shift to clearing downtown areas, trails, sidewalks, public parking lots, skating rinks, and ski trails.

The speed of addressing these areas depends on available equipment and staff. For example, staff may start working on a trail when the equipment and staff for streets and downtown are deployed or in use. Operations may temporarily halt during hazardous weather conditions such as ice storms, blizzards, or extreme cold to ensure employee safety.

To promote environmental responsibility, the park department staff is certified through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency in Smart Salting Training. This program teaches best practices, improves operator efficiency, and reduces chloride pollution while ensuring the safety of parking lots and sidewalks.

During winter months, both drivers and pedestrians are urged to exercise extra caution on the roads and sidewalks. Patience is key as city employees strive to make the pavement safer for everyone.